Further to the Central Bank Circular No. BCP/214 dated 25/4/1416 H regarding the Central Bank's observations made by various banks, as well as Central Bank Circular No. (485/BC/36) dated 07/01/1416 H attached to the Security Safety Manual, the Central Bank emphasizes the necessity of compliance with all outlined directives.

1-The bank must adhere to the security safety requirements outlined in the aforementioned guide for all new branches, offices, or ATMs and provide the Central Bank with a certificate from the security consultant confirming compliance with these requirements.

2-No bank is allowed to open new branches, offices or ATMs in any region of the Kingdom without obtaining an official license from the Central Bank.

3-Upon obtaining the Central Bank's license to open a branch or install an ATM, any relocation of the branch or ATM, regardless of its operational status or non-operational, is prohibited without obtaining a written approval from the Central Bank.

4-When the bank obtains the Central Bank's approval to open a branch in any location, the installation of the ATM in the branch is subordinate to the branch license, and there is no requirement to secure a separate license for the ATM; however, it is necessary to notify the Central Bank of this installation.

5-It is not permissible to merge an independent ATM license (outside the branch premises) with any branch, whether operational or non-operational.

6-The license is valid for a period of nine months from the date of its approval. The bank shall ensure the completion of the opening process within this period. Should the bank be unable to finalize the opening within the stipulated period, it shall notify the Central Bank of the reasons for the delay prior to the expiration of the license.

7-Licenses for non-operational branches are extended every six months to allow the bank to equipe the location.

8-A bank shall submit a report to the central bank biannually, detailing its status regarding the establishment of new branches and the installation of ATMs.

9-When requesting approval to open a branch or install an ATM, each bank must attach the following data

•  A feasibility study for opening a branch or installing an ATM.
•  A blueprint or showing the exact location of the requested branch or the exact location of the ATM.

10-The Central Bank must be notified of the actual date on which the branch opens and begins operations, or the date on which the ATM becomes operational.